Path integral derivations of K-theoretic Donaldson invariants

Abstract: We discuss path integral derivations of topologically twisted partition functions of 5d SU(2) supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory on M4 x S1, where M4 is a smooth closed four-manifold. Mathematically, they can be identified with the K-theoretic version of the Donaldson invariants. In particular, we provide two different path integral derivations of their wall-crossing formula for b_2^+(M4)=1, first in the so-called U-plane integral approach, and in the perspective of instanton counting. We briefly discuss the generalization to b_2^+(M4)>1.

differential geometrymetric geometry

Audience: researchers in the discipline

Western Hemisphere colloquium on geometry and physics

Series comments: Description: Biweekly colloquium of geometers and physicists

This weekly online colloquium features geometers and physicists presenting current research on a wide range of topics in the interface of the two fields. The talks are aimed at a broad audience. They will take place via Zoom on alternate Mondays at 3pm Eastern, noon Pacific, 4pm BRT. Each session features a 60 minute talk, followed by 15 minutes for questions and discussion. You may join the meeting 15 minutes in advance. Questions and comments may be submitted to the moderator via the chat interface during the talk, or presented in person during the Q&A session. These colloquia will be recorded and will be available (linked from the website) asap after the event.